Metal amalgam fillings have been used for decades to repair cavities and restore damaged teeth. While they’re still a durable, effective solution, modern composite fillings offer several key benefits, particularly when it comes to appearance and preserving natural tooth structure. If you’re on the fence about canceling metal mouth, continue reading to learn why it may be time you made the jump to tooth-colored fillings.
The Cosmetic Advantage
One of the biggest reasons patients replace metal fillings is for cosmetic purposes. Silver amalgam restorations can be noticeable when you laugh, speak, or open your mouth, especially when they’re located toward the front of your smile.
Tooth-colored composite fillings are designed to blend with your natural enamel, making them a much lower-profile option. Replacing visible metal restorations can create a more uniform appearance and help you feel confident about your smile.
You’ve Exhausted Your Metal Fillings
As the old saying goes, you can’t squeeze blood from a turnip. In other words, your metal fillings have served you well, but they’re on their last legs and may become a liability.
If your older filling has weakened to the point of becoming damaged, it may allow bacteria to come between your restoration and the supporting tooth, increasing the chances of more decay developing.
Replacing a compromised filling allows your dentist to remove damaged material, examine the underlying tooth, and restore its structure before more extensive problems develop.
Protect Your Natural Teeth from Fractures
Large amalgam fillings can sometimes leave teeth susceptible to fractures because less natural tooth structure remains to support them. Additionally, metal is more vulnerable to extreme temperatures than a tooth-colored composite filling. Repeated temperature changes and chewing forces may contribute to cracks in certain restored teeth over time.
Your dentist can evaluate whether an existing filling is weakening your tooth and recommend an appropriate restoration. Depending on the amount of remaining tooth structure, a dental crown may provide better protection than another filling.
The Joys of Modern Dental Materials
Composite fillings offer more than cosmetic improvements. They bond directly to natural tooth structure, allowing dentists to restore cavities while preserving healthy enamel whenever possible.
Unlike traditional amalgam fillings, composite restorations don’t rely primarily on mechanical retention. Their bonding properties can help support the remaining tooth structure while providing a natural-looking finish.
Eliminate Mercury Exposure Concerns
Dental amalgam contains mercury, which releases small amounts of mercury vapor. Although amalgam is generally considered safe for most patients, some individuals may have concerns about mercury exposure or belong to groups for whom alternatives are recommended.
Raise your concerns with your dentist if your amalgam filling is healthy and intact, but you’re worried about potentially harmful elements.
Schedule a consultation with your dentist if you’re ready to talk about a new restoration. One-on-one time with a professional may be just what you need to make an informed decision about your oral health.
About the Author
Dr. Parley Hubler, Jr. felt the calling of dentistry while doing undergraduate studies at Brigham Young University. He went on to earn his dental degree at the Oklahoma College of Dentistry and has been practicing for more than 3 decades, opening Lucas Family Dentistry in 2018. These days, his membership in the Academy of General Dentistry lets him access continuing education and stay abreast of the latest developments in his field. For services and scheduling, contact us online or call (214) 446-6011.